Hinton RCMP seize deadly carfentanil in drug bust

A white powder seized during a drug bust in Hinton has tested positive as the deadly substance carfentanil, police said Tuesday.

The drug is an animal tranquillizer 100 times more powerful than fentanyl, itself 100 times more powerful than morphine.

Hinton RCMP seized the drugs in January at two separate residences after executing search warrants.

Health Canada confirmed the substance was carfentanil March 22.

Carfentanil can be fatal with a dose of 20 micrograms. Police said it looks like table salt and only a few granules can trigger an overdose.

RCMP are warning the public that there’s always a risk illegal drugs may be contaminated with more potent substances.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Hinton detachment at 780-865-2455 or to submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.